Singapore (28 November 2018) – The APAC Effie Awards has named Joanna Flint and Rupen Desai as the next two Heads of Jury for the 2018 Awards.

Joanna Flint is the Managing Director of Google’s Agency Business for Asia Pacific and was formerly the Managing Director for Google Singapore. Prior to Google, she held senior leadership positions at WPP, Singapore Airlines, and

British Airways’ where she led their global foray into digital- embracing digital marketing, CRM, and e-commerce.

She has authored publications, including the new path to purchase, “Winning the Zero Moment of Truth – Asia". Joanna currently sits on the Boards of the IAB and the Singapore Tourism Board.

Commenting on her appointment Joanna said, "Marketing is a critical investment line for businesses and never before has it been more challenging for agencies and marketers. I'm honoured to be appointed as a Head of Jury for the APAC Effies to evaluate and celebrate the hardest working marketing investments coming out of this digital-first region".

Rupen Desai is the Vice Chairman of Edelman across Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa. He leads Edelman’s integrated brand practice across the region covering brand communications, digital, consumer PR and social media.

He is a strong advocate of the impact purpose-led business and creativity have on society, as well as profit.

Prior to Edelman, Rupen spent 20 years working for Lowe + Partners. He was the network’s Asia Pacific President, during which the network became a top performer in effectiveness awards. A great supporter of APAC Effie, Rupen has served as a jury member of the awards for the last four years, and is also on the APAC Effie Committee.

“The need for great work and its effectiveness can never be overstated. Brands must do more in today’s era of indifference. Today, neither attention nor trust can be bought, they need to be earned. Being able to help judge the best work of the region is both a great honour, and an even greater responsibility”, said Rupen.

The APAC Effie Awards are known globally by advertisers and agencies as the preeminent award for Marketing Effectiveness. The remaining Heads of Jury and full jury line-up will be announced progressively. Stay tuned for more updates via www.apaceffie.com